When dogs age, their food must change, too. They need meals that go down easy and are full of good stuff. Older dogs often go crazy about wet food since it’s yummier and easier on their teeth than those dry bits. Find out the top wet food picks for senior dogs to make sure they get all the important vitamins they need in their golden years.
When looking for wet dog food for senior dogs, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, the food should be easily digestible. Senior dogs can have trouble digesting certain ingredients, so it’s important to choose a food that won’t upset their stomach. Additionally, the food should be high in protein to help maintain muscle mass and low in fat to prevent weight gain.
Another important factor to consider is the quality of the ingredients. Look for wet dog food that is made with high-quality proteins, such as chicken or beef, and avoid foods that contain fillers or by-products. It’s also a good idea to choose a food that contains added vitamins and minerals to support your dog’s overall health.
We spent hours researching and testing various wet dog foods to identify the best options for senior dogs. In the following sections, we will be discussing our top picks and what makes them stand out from the competition.
Best Wet Dog Food for Senior Dogs
As our furry companions age, their nutritional needs change. Senior dogs require a balanced diet that supports their aging bodies and helps maintain their overall health. Wet dog food is an excellent option for senior dogs as it provides them with the necessary hydration and essential nutrients. In this article, we have compiled a list of the best wet dog food options for senior dogs. Our team of experts has carefully researched and tested each product to ensure that it meets our high standards for quality, taste, and nutrition. Read on to find the perfect wet dog food for your senior furry friend.
1. Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Natural Senior Wet Dog Food
If you are looking for a natural and nutritious wet dog food for your senior dog, Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Natural Senior Wet Dog Food, Chicken is worth considering.
Pros
- Made with real chicken as the first ingredient to support healthy muscle maintenance
- Contains glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health and mobility in older dogs
- Free from chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, and artificial flavors or preservatives
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the pate style wet dog food
- The price point may be higher compared to other wet dog food options
- The packaging may not be as eco-friendly as other brands
We recently tried Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Natural Senior Wet Dog Food, Chicken for our senior dog and were impressed by the high-quality ingredients and the added support for joint health. Our dog seemed to enjoy the taste and texture of the pate style wet dog food, although we did notice that it was a bit more expensive compared to other wet dog food options.
The fact that this wet dog food is free from chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, and artificial flavors or preservatives is a big plus for us. We also appreciate that the brand uses wholesome ingredients like whole carrots, sweet potatoes, blueberries, and cranberries.
Overall, if you are looking for a natural and nutritious wet dog food for your senior dog that supports joint health and mobility, we would recommend giving Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Natural Senior Wet Dog Food, Chicken a try.
2. Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein, Natural Senior Wet Dog Food
If you’re looking for a grain-free wet dog food that’s packed with real meat and wholesome ingredients, then Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein, Natural Senior Wet Dog Food, Turkey & Chicken Grill is a great option.
Pros
- This wet dog food is made with real turkey and chicken, which dogs love.
- You can feed this dog food in three ways: as a treat, mixed with dry food, or as a meal on its own.
- Blue Buffalo Wilderness Senior Wet Dog Food is made with natural ingredients and enhanced with vitamins and minerals.
Cons
- This dog food contains carrageenan, which some pet owners may prefer to avoid.
- Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of this wet dog food.
- This dog food may be more expensive than other wet dog food options.
We recently tried Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein, Natural Senior Wet Dog Food, Turkey & Chicken Grill with our senior dog and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. Our dog loved the taste of the real turkey and chicken, and we appreciated that the dog food was made with natural ingredients and enhanced with vitamins and minerals.
One thing to note is that this dog food does contain carrageenan, which some pet owners may prefer to avoid. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste or texture of this wet dog food, so it may not be the best option for picky eaters.
Overall, we would recommend Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein, Natural Senior Wet Dog Food, Turkey & Chicken Grill for pet owners looking for a high-quality wet dog food option for their senior dogs.
3. Hill’s Science Diet Wet Dog Food, Senior Adult 7+, Chicken & Barley Entrée
If you’re looking for a wet dog food that is specifically formulated for senior dogs, Hill’s Science Diet Wet Dog Food, Senior Adult 7+, Chicken & Barley Entrée, 13 oz. Cans, 12-Pack is a great option to consider.
Pros
- Made with high-quality protein to help your senior dog maintain lean muscle
- Uses a balanced set of minerals to promote a healthy heart and healthy bones in older dogs
- Made with natural ingredients
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste
- A bit more expensive than other wet dog food options
- Some customers have reported difficulty opening the cans
We’ve been using Hill’s Science Diet Wet Dog Food, Senior Adult 7+, Chicken & Barley Entrée for our senior dog for a few months now, and we’ve been pleased with the results. Our dog seems to enjoy the taste and has maintained a healthy weight. The high-quality protein has helped her maintain her lean muscle, and the balanced set of minerals has promoted a healthy heart and healthy bones.
One thing to note is that some dogs may not like the taste of this wet dog food. We recommend trying a small amount before committing to a larger purchase. Additionally, this wet dog food is a bit more expensive than other options, which may be a consideration for some pet owners.
Overall, we recommend Hill’s Science Diet Wet Dog Food, Senior Adult 7+, Chicken & Barley Entrée for pet owners looking for a high-quality wet dog food specifically formulated for senior dogs.
4. Purina Beneful Small Breed Wet Dog Food Variety Pack
If you have a small breed senior dog, the Purina Beneful Small Breed Wet Dog Food Variety Pack is an excellent choice for them. This wet dog food is made with real beef, chicken, or salmon and vegetables that you can see. The small, tender bites are perfect for small mouths, and a flavorful gravy adds the finishing touch to this small adult dog food.
Pros
- The protein-rich recipes feature bite-sized, meaty chunks that are easy for small mouths and teeth to manage.
- The wet dog food for small dogs is made with real salmon or farm-raised beef or chicken, which provides a variety of delicious flavors that keep mealtime exciting.
- The Purina Beneful Small Breed Wet Dog Food Variety Pack is made with no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
Cons
- The cans are only 3 oz, which may not be enough for larger small breed dogs.
- The food has a strong smell that may not be pleasant to some people.
- The Purina Beneful Small Breed Wet Dog Food Variety Pack may be more expensive than other wet dog food options.
In our experience, the Purina Beneful Small Breed Wet Dog Food Variety Pack is an excellent choice for small breed senior dogs. The wet dog food is easy for small mouths and teeth to manage, and the variety of flavors keeps mealtime exciting. The food is also made with no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives, which is a plus. However, the cans are only 3 oz, which may not be enough for larger small breed dogs, and the food has a strong smell that may not be pleasant to some people. Overall, we recommend the Purina Beneful Small Breed Wet Dog Food Variety Pack for small breed senior dogs.
5. Purina Pro Plan High Protein Wet Dog Food for Senior Dogs
If you’re looking for a high-quality wet dog food for your senior furry friend, Purina Pro Plan’s SENIOR Adult 7+ Turkey and Rice Formula is a great option. This premium canned dog food is formulated with real turkey, high protein, and no artificial colors or flavors, making it an ideal choice for maintaining your dog’s ideal body condition.
Pros
- Made with real turkey
- High protein formula designed for senior dogs
- No artificial colors or flavors
Cons
- May be more expensive than other options
- Some dogs may not like the taste
- Only comes in one flavor
We’ve been feeding our senior dog Purina Pro Plan’s SENIOR Adult 7+ Turkey and Rice Formula for a few months now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in her overall health and energy levels. The high protein level has helped her maintain a healthy weight, and the real turkey gives her a delicious taste that she loves.
One thing to keep in mind is that this wet dog food may be more expensive than other options on the market. However, we believe that the high quality ingredients and specialized nutrition make it worth the price.
Overall, we highly recommend Purina Pro Plan’s SENIOR Adult 7+ Turkey and Rice Formula for any senior dog owners looking for a high-quality wet dog food option.
6. Hill’s Science Diet Wet Dog Food, Adult 7+ For Senior Dogs
If you’re looking for a nutritious and tasty wet dog food for your senior dog, Hill’s Science Diet Wet Dog Food is an excellent choice.
Pros
- The high-quality protein in the food helps your senior dog maintain lean muscles.
- The ingredients are easily digestible, which makes it easy for older dogs to enjoy.
- The food is formulated with key nutrients to support dogs aged 7 and older.
Cons
- The food is a bit expensive compared to other options.
- The serving size is relatively small, so you may need to supplement with other food.
- Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food.
We recently tried Hill’s Science Diet Wet Dog Food for our senior dog, and we were impressed with the quality of the food. The chicken and vegetable flavor was a hit with our dog, and we noticed that she had more energy and vitality after eating it. The food is easy to serve, as it comes in convenient, single-serve trays that you can peel open and serve right away.
One of the things we liked about this food is that it is made with natural ingredients, which gives us peace of mind knowing that we are feeding our dog a healthy and nutritious meal. We also appreciated that the food is formulated with key nutrients that support dogs aged 7 and older, which is important for senior dogs who may have specific dietary needs.
While the food is a bit expensive compared to other options, we think it’s worth it for the quality of the ingredients and the health benefits it provides. The serving size is relatively small, so you may need to supplement with other food if your dog has a big appetite. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food, so it’s important to introduce it slowly and see how your dog reacts.
Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Wet Dog Food for senior dogs. It’s a nutritious and tasty option that will help your dog maintain a healthy and happy life.
7. Hill’s Science Diet Senior Vitality Chicken & Vegetable Stew
We highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Senior Vitality Chicken & Vegetable Stew for senior dogs. This canned dog food is made with real chicken and a medley of delectable vegetables, all smothered in a delicious gravy. It has a proprietary blend of quality ingredients to support brain function, interaction, energy, and vitality. It also promotes a healthy coat with vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids and includes clinically proven antioxidants vitamins C plus E for a healthy immune system. Formulated with ingredients to support heart health, this food is scientifically developed for dogs age 7 and older. It can be served as a complete meal or a savory topper to Science Diet Senior Vitality dry dog food.
Pros
- Improves everyday ability to get up and go for adult dogs age 7 plus
- Delicious stew can be fed by itself or paired with Science Diet Senior Vitality dry food
- Canned dog food to support brain health, interaction, energy, and vitality
Cons
- May not be suitable for dogs with specific dietary requirements
- Some dogs may not enjoy the taste or texture of the stew
- More expensive than some other wet dog food options
Hill’s Science Diet Senior Vitality Chicken & Vegetable Stew is an excellent choice for senior dogs who need a boost in their everyday ability to get up and go. The delicious stew can be served by itself or paired with Science Diet Senior Vitality dry food for a complete and balanced meal. The canned dog food is also formulated to support brain health, interaction, energy, and vitality, making it an ideal choice for older dogs. However, some dogs may not enjoy the taste or texture of the stew, and it may not be suitable for dogs with specific dietary requirements. Additionally, it is more expensive than some other wet dog food options. Overall, we believe that Hill’s Science Diet Senior Vitality Chicken & Vegetable Stew is a top-quality product that is worth the investment for senior dogs who need a little extra support.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best wet dog food for senior dogs, there are several factors to consider. Here are some features to look for when selecting a product:
Nutritional Content
Senior dogs have different nutritional needs than younger dogs, so it’s important to choose a wet dog food that is specifically formulated for seniors. Look for products that are high in protein and low in fat, as well as those that contain vitamins and minerals that support joint health and cognitive function.
Ingredient Quality
The quality of the ingredients in your dog’s food is crucial to their overall health and wellbeing. Look for products that use high-quality, whole-food ingredients, and avoid those that contain fillers, by-products, or artificial preservatives.
Texture and Flavor
Senior dogs may have dental issues that make it difficult for them to chew hard kibble, so wet dog food can be a good option. Look for products with a soft texture that is easy for your dog to eat, and consider trying different flavors to find one that your dog enjoys.
Price
While price shouldn’t be the only factor you consider when choosing a wet dog food for your senior dog, it’s important to find a product that fits within your budget. Compare prices and look for products that offer good value for their nutritional content and ingredient quality.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best wet dog food for your senior dog’s unique nutritional needs and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top vet-recommended wet foods for senior dogs?
There are several wet dog food brands that veterinarians recommend for senior dogs. Some of the top vet-recommended brands include Hill’s Science Diet, Blue Buffalo, Royal Canin, and Purina Pro Plan. These brands offer senior-specific formulas that are designed to meet the unique nutritional needs of aging dogs.
How can I ensure a senior dog with dental issues gets proper nutrition?
Senior dogs with dental issues may have difficulty chewing dry kibble, which can lead to malnutrition. Wet dog food is a good alternative for these dogs, as it is easier to chew and digest. Look for wet dog food that is specifically formulated for senior dogs and promotes dental health.
What wet dog food is ideal for small breeds in their older years?
Small breed dogs have different nutritional needs than larger breeds, especially as they age. Wet dog food that is specifically formulated for small breed senior dogs is ideal. Some of the top brands for small breed senior dogs include Wellness Complete Health, Blue Buffalo, and Nutro Ultra.
Which senior dog food brands are rated highly by consumer reports?
Consumer reports rate several wet dog food brands highly for senior dogs. Some of the top-rated brands include Hill’s Science Diet, Blue Buffalo, Purina Pro Plan, and Nutro Ultra. These brands offer high-quality, nutritious wet dog food that is specifically formulated for senior dogs.
How can I help my senior dog lose weight through dietary changes?
Senior dogs may become less active as they age, which can lead to weight gain. To help your senior dog lose weight, consider switching to a weight management wet dog food formula. These formulas typically have fewer calories and fat than regular dog food. Additionally, feeding smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day can help regulate your dog’s metabolism and aid in weight loss.
What are the best feeding strategies for a picky senior dog?
If your senior dog is a picky eater, there are several feeding strategies you can try. One option is to mix wet dog food with dry kibble to create a more appealing texture. Another option is to add a small amount of wet dog food to your dog’s dry kibble to enhance the flavor. Finally, try feeding your dog at the same time every day to establish a routine and encourage regular eating habits.